Casa Ole Queso Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

1 Jul, 2023

Discover the Irresistible Delight of Casa Ole Queso: A Cheesy Tex-Mex Dip Perfect for Parties, Game Nights, and Snack Time. Try it Now!

Casa Ole Queso

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Category: Appetizer, Dip, Snack
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 150 calories

About this recipe

Casa Ole queso is a Tex-Mex delight that's known for its creamy and flavorful goodness. Imagine a smooth, velvety cheese dip with a slight kick of heat and a burst of tangy flavors. That's Casa Ole queso for you.

The base of this queso is usually made with Velveeta cheese, which gives it that wonderfully creamy texture when melted. To add some depth and a touch of spiciness, diced tomatoes with green chilies are mixed in.

These tomatoes provide a refreshing burst of flavor and a hint of heat that balances perfectly with the richness of the cheese.

To enhance the taste even further, Casa Ole's queso typically includes sautéed onions, jalapeno peppers, and minced garlic. These aromatic ingredients add a savory note and bring out the natural flavors of the cheese and tomatoes. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend that's sure to please your taste buds.

To give the queso a Tex-Mex twist, spices like cumin and chili powder are often added. These spices bring a touch of earthiness and warmth to the dip, elevating its flavor profile. Of course, you can adjust the amount of spice according to your personal preference.

The end result is a bowl of queso that's perfect for dipping your favorite tortilla chips into. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a movie night, or simply craving some cheesy goodness, Casa Ole queso is a fantastic choice.

It's worth mentioning that while the recipe I provided earlier aims to recreate the flavors of Casa Ole's queso, the exact ingredients and proportions used by the restaurant might differ slightly.

However, with the recipe I will provide below, you can create a delicious homemade version that captures the essence of Casa Ole's famous queso dip. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor the mouthwatering taste of Casa Ole queso!

Recipe origin and background

Casa Ole is a popular Tex-Mex restaurant chain that was founded in 1973 in Texas, United States. The queso dip served at Casa Ole has become one of their signature dishes and a beloved favorite among their customers.

While the exact origin of the Casa Ole queso recipe is not widely known, it draws inspiration from traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine.

Queso, which means "cheese" in Spanish, is a common element in Mexican cuisine, where various types of melted cheese are used in dishes like quesadillas and chiles rellenos.

The Casa Ole queso recipe likely evolved through the years as a result of experimentation and adaptation to suit the preferences of their customers. Different variations of queso can be found throughout Texas and the broader Tex-Mex culinary landscape, with each restaurant adding their own twist to the recipe.

Over time, Casa Ole's queso has become an iconic dish associated with the restaurant, beloved by many for its addictive flavors. Its popularity has even inspired home cooks to recreate the recipe and enjoy it in the comfort of their own kitchens.

Why try this Casa Ole Queso recipe?

Authentic Tex-Mex Flavor: If you enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine, this recipe will allow you to recreate the flavors of a popular restaurant dish at home. It captures the essence of Casa Ole's queso, giving you a taste of authentic Tex-Mex goodness.
Customizable to Your Taste: The recipe provides a solid foundation, but you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapenos, play with the seasonings, or experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique twist on the dish.
Simple and Easy: The recipe is relatively straightforward and doesn't require extensive culinary skills. With common ingredients and a few basic steps, you can whip up a batch of delicious queso dip in no time. It's a great option for a quick and tasty appetizer or snack.
Versatility: Casa Ole queso is incredibly versatile. Not only can you enjoy it as a dip with tortilla chips, but it also makes a fantastic topping for tacos, burritos, nachos, or even baked potatoes. Its creamy and flavorful nature complements a wide range of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether you're hosting a party, having a movie night with friends, or simply craving a satisfying snack, Casa Ole queso is sure to be a hit. Its creamy, cheesy, and tangy flavors appeal to a wide range of tastes, making it a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings and social events.
Homemade Goodness: Making your own queso dip allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the recipe to your liking. It's a wonderful feeling to create a delicious dish from scratch and share it with family and friends.

So, give the Casa Ole queso recipe a try and indulge in the wonderful flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual get-together, this homemade queso is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for a creamy and cheesy dip.

What is in Casa Ole Queso?

Butter: Butter is used to sauté the onions, jalapenos, and garlic, adding flavor and richness to the queso.
Onion: Diced onion provides a savory and slightly sweet taste to the queso. It adds depth and aroma to the dip.
Jalapeno Pepper: The jalapeno pepper brings a mild level of spiciness to the queso. It adds a subtle kick without overpowering the overall flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the savory profile of the queso, imparting a delicious depth of flavor.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This ingredient adds tanginess and a touch of heat to the queso. The combination of tomatoes and green chilies provides a zesty and vibrant flavor.
Velveeta Cheese: Velveeta cheese is known for its smooth and melty consistency, making it ideal for a creamy queso dip. It adds a rich and cheesy taste to the dish.
Milk: Milk is used to thin out the queso and achieve the desired consistency. It also helps to create a creamy texture.
Cumin: Cumin is a spice that adds an earthy and warm flavor to the queso. It complements the other ingredients and contributes to the overall Tex-Mex profile.
Chili Powder: Chili powder brings a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the queso. It enhances the taste and adds complexity to the dip.

Equipment required for this recipe

Saucepan: A medium to large-sized saucepan is necessary for sautéing the onions, jalapenos, and garlic, as well as for melting the cheese and combining the ingredients.
Cutting Board and Knife: These are essential for chopping the onion, jalapeno pepper, and garlic.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: You'll need a utensil for stirring and combining the ingredients in the saucepan.
Measuring Spoons: Measuring spoons are handy for accurately measuring the spices.
Can Opener: If using canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, a can opener is needed to open the can.

How to make Casa Ole Queso

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Casa Ole queso, a Tex-Mex appetizer bursting with cheesy flavor. Quick to make, perfect for gatherings. Try it today!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 pound Velveeta cheese, cubed
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and jalapeno pepper to the saucepan and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the liquid) to the saucepan and stir well.
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
Stir in the milk, cumin, and chili powder. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the queso is heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to serve Casa Ole Queso

Warm the Queso: Before serving, gently reheat the queso dip if it has cooled down. You can do this on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it becomes warm and smooth. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches the desired temperature.
Transfer to a Serving Dish: Once the queso is warm and creamy, transfer it to a serving dish or a bowl. Choose a bowl that is large enough to accommodate the dip and leave some space for dipping tortilla chips.
Garnish (Optional): You can garnish the queso with some additional toppings to enhance the presentation and flavor. Popular options include finely chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, or a sprinkle of chili powder. These toppings add a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with Tortilla Chips: Casa Ole queso is traditionally enjoyed with tortilla chips. Arrange a plate or bowl of tortilla chips alongside the queso dip. Opt for a variety of tortilla chips such as plain, salted, or even flavored ones to offer some diversity in taste and texture.
Dipping and Enjoying: Once everything is set, invite your guests or yourself to dig in! Take a tortilla chip and dip it into the warm queso, ensuring you scoop up a generous amount of cheese. Feel free to experiment with different dipping techniques or even try pairing the queso with other items like vegetables or crackers.
Sharing and Refilling: Keep an eye on the queso dip during your gathering and refill the bowl as needed to ensure it remains warm and inviting for everyone. You can also provide a small spoon or ladle for guests to scoop the queso onto their plates or onto their chips.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 685 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Casa Ole Queso, Casa Ole Queso Recipe, Recipe, Quick, Top rated

What to serve Casa Ole Queso with

Casa Ole queso pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some suggestions for what you can serve alongside Casa Ole queso:

Tortilla Chips: The classic and most popular choice for serving with queso. Choose different types of tortilla chips like plain, salted, or flavored ones to provide a variety of textures and flavors.
Sliced Vegetables: Offer an array of sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumber, carrot sticks, or celery. The fresh and crunchy vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy queso.
Toasted Bread or Baguette Slices: Cut a baguette into slices and lightly toast them. The crusty bread adds a different texture and taste to the queso.
Pretzels: Pretzels, whether small twists or large rods, make an interesting and slightly salty option for dipping into the queso. The combination of the soft queso and crunchy pretzels can be quite satisfying.
Nachos: Create a platter of loaded nachos by arranging tortilla chips on a baking sheet, then topping them with queso, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, black olives, and any other desired toppings. Bake until the cheese melts and serve them with extra queso on the side.
Crispy Tater Tots or French Fries: If you're in the mood for something indulgent, serve Casa Ole queso with crispy tater tots or french fries. The combination of the cheesy queso and the crispy potatoes is a tasty treat.
Quesadillas: Prepare quesadillas by filling tortillas with cheese, grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, or any other desired fillings. Slice the quesadillas into wedges and serve them alongside the queso for double the cheesiness.
Mini Taquitos or Empanadas: Serve small taquitos or empanadas filled with beef, chicken, or cheese as bite-sized accompaniments to the queso. These little treats offer a flavorful combination with the cheesy dip.
Fresh Salsa: Offer a bowl of fresh salsa on the side, allowing guests to enjoy the contrast of flavors between the vibrant salsa and the creamy queso. It adds an extra layer of freshness and tanginess to the overall experience.
Mexican Rice or Refried Beans: For a heartier option, serve Casa Ole queso alongside Mexican rice or refried beans. These side dishes complement the queso and add more substance to the meal.

My recommendations and tips

Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. If you like it spicier, add more jalapenos or even incorporate hotter chili peppers. Conversely, if you prefer a milder queso, reduce the amount of jalapenos or use mild green chilies instead.
Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your queso. Opt for ripe tomatoes, flavorful onions, and vibrant jalapenos for the best results.
Experiment with Cheese: While Velveeta is commonly used in Casa Ole queso, you can experiment with different cheeses or even a combination of cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can be excellent alternatives that add their own distinct flavors.
Don't Rush the Melting Process: When melting the cheese, it's important to do it slowly and over low heat to avoid scorching or clumping. Stir continuously to ensure the cheese melts evenly and becomes smooth.
Consistency Adjustments: If your queso becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to achieve a smoother and pourable consistency. On the other hand, if it becomes too thin, you can let it cook a bit longer to thicken naturally.
Keep Warm: To keep the queso warm during your gathering, you can transfer it to a slow cooker or fondue pot on the warm or low setting. This will maintain the desired temperature and ensure the queso stays smooth and enjoyable for your guests.
Double the Recipe: If you're expecting a larger crowd or want leftovers for later, consider doubling the recipe. Casa Ole queso can be refrigerated and reheated for future enjoyment.
Presentation: When serving the queso, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a dollop of sour cream to add visual appeal and additional flavor elements.
Have Extra Chips and Dippers: Make sure you have an ample supply of tortilla chips or other dippers to accompany the queso. It's always better to have more than not enough, as people tend to enjoy queso generously.
Enjoy and Share the Experience: Casa Ole queso is best enjoyed with family and friends. So, gather your loved ones, create a festive atmosphere, and savor the delicious flavors together.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Cheese Substitutes: If you prefer not to use Velveeta cheese or if it's not available, you can substitute it with other types of melting cheeses like American cheese, processed cheese slices, or even shredded cheddar cheese. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly, but it will still result in a delicious queso dip.
Dairy-Free/Vegan Options: For a dairy-free or vegan version of the queso, you can use plant-based cheese alternatives such as vegan cheddar cheese or vegan cream cheese. There are several brands available in stores that offer dairy-free and vegan cheese options.
Salsa Substitutes: If you don't have diced tomatoes with green chilies, you can substitute them with your favorite salsa. Use mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your spice preference. This substitution will still provide the tangy and flavorful element to the queso.
Onion Substitutes: If you're not a fan of onions or don't have them on hand, you can omit them altogether or replace them with shallots or finely diced leeks for a milder onion flavor.
Garlic Powder: If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic called for in the recipe.
Spice Substitutes: If you don't have cumin or chili powder, you can try using other spices that complement Tex-Mex flavors such as paprika, oregano, or even a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences.
Gluten-Free Options: To make the queso gluten-free, ensure that the ingredients you use, such as tortilla chips or any pre-packaged items, are certified gluten-free. You can also serve the queso with gluten-free alternatives like corn tortilla chips or gluten-free crackers.

Additional note

Storage and Reheating: If you have leftovers, store the queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave using short intervals, stirring in between. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Queso Variations: While Casa Ole queso is a classic recipe, feel free to get creative and add your own personal touch. You can incorporate additional ingredients like cooked ground beef, diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to give the queso a heartier Tex-Mex twist.
Dipping Sauce or Topping: Casa Ole queso can also be used as a flavorful dipping sauce or topping for other dishes. Try drizzling it over tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or even baked potatoes for a delicious Tex-Mex flair.
Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier queso, you can increase the amount of jalapenos or add a few dashes of hot sauce. Conversely, if you want a milder version, reduce the amount of jalapenos or omit them altogether.
Queso Fundido: If you enjoy a stretchy, gooey texture to your queso, you can make a variation known as Queso Fundido. This involves melting the cheese in a skillet, adding the other ingredients, and then transferring it to a broiler to achieve a golden, bubbly crust on top.
Serving Temperature: Casa Ole queso is traditionally served warm or hot. However, if you prefer a chilled version, you can let the queso cool in the refrigerator before serving. Keep in mind that the texture and consistency may change when chilled.
Food Safety: When serving queso at gatherings, it's important to keep it at a safe temperature to prevent any risk of foodborne illnesses. If the queso has been sitting out for more than two hours at room temperature, it's best to discard any leftovers.
Pairing Beverages: Casa Ole queso goes well with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it with refreshing options like cold beer, margaritas, iced tea, or even a fruit-infused water for a light and hydrating accompaniment.

Final Remark

Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a delicious snack, Casa Ole queso is a must-try recipe. Embrace the cheesy goodness and elevate your taste buds with this Tex-Mex delight. Get ready to dip, enjoy, and make every moment a flavor-filled fiesta!